Book Review: Under Her Care: A Thriller by Lucinda Berry
From the moment I heard about Under Her Care, I was intrigued. The premise of a young boy, an autistic teen at the center of a murder investigation, painted vivid imagery and stirred curiosity about the complexities of familial love and societal perception. Lucinda Berry, known for her gripping narratives and psychological depth, had me hooked before I even turned the first page.
Set against the backdrop of a humid Alabama summer, the story opens with the shocking murder of the mayor’s wife. Fourteen-year-old Mason Hill stands beside her body, seemingly guilty in the eyes of the townsfolk. Berry’s narrative dives deep not just into the crime, but into the unsettling intricacies of family dynamics—especially the protective instincts of a mother, Genevieve Hill, once crowned Miss USA. The layers of tension and distrust are palpable, and as local autism expert Casey Walker steps in to investigate, the layers of the Hill family begin to peel away, revealing not just secrets, but the very nature of love itself.
The characters in Under Her Care are richly drawn and distinctly impactful. Casey Walker is relatable and flawed, navigating both her professional duties and personal biases as she gets drawn deeper into the Hill family’s web of dysfunction. Of course, Genevieve is a fascinating character; her fierce protectiveness of Mason quickly turns into something more sinister as the plot unfolds. The contrast between the two women—Casey, grounded in her mission to uncover the truth, and Genevieve, who dances on the edge of desperation—heightens the emotional stakes.
Berry’s writing style is engaging and fluid, pulling you into the story effortlessly. I found myself racing through the pages, eager to uncover the next twist. The pacing is swift, yet not overwhelming, allowing moments of reflection amidst the suspense. One particularly striking quote that resonated with me was, “A mother’s love can be both a shield and a weapon,” encapsulating the essence of the narrative beautifully.
While I thoroughly enjoyed the psychological depth and the unraveling mysteries, I did see echoes of concern from other readers regarding the portrayal of autism. Berry navigates this topic with care, and while some may feel it leans into stereotype at points, I appreciated the author’s attempt to shed light on the struggles of both the child and the family surrounding such challenges. The conversation around autism is complex and varies greatly from person to person, which makes the dialogue within the book all the more important.
In conclusion, Under Her Care is a riveting read that challenges perceptions of love, loyalty, and the lengths one might go to protect family. I would highly recommend it to fans of psychological thrillers, as well as those intrigued by the intricacies of family dynamics. Berry’s expertise in weaving suspenseful tales is evident, and if you’re in the mood for a book that keeps you on the edge of your seat, this one will not disappoint. The experience left me pondering not just the story, but the broader implications of love and truth, long after I closed the cover. Happy reading!